Event shows historical house restoration works
GoogleResidents have been invited to see how a historical Surrey house is being restored.
The Grade I-listed Willmer House in Farnham, built at the start of the 18th Century, had fallen into disrepair in recent years.
However, Waverley Borough Council has started a project to prevent the building from collapsing, and turn it into a museum.
The council and The Farnham Society say they are inviting people to attend a special event detailing the restoration works taking place.
The event, which is due to start at 19:30 BST on Monday in the Great Hall at Farnham Maltings, will offer a "unique insight into the history and future of one of Farnham's most treasured heritage buildings", according to councillors.
An expert panel discussion will be accompanied by historical photographs, architectural images and illustrations, "helping to bring the story of Willmer House and its restoration to life", they add.
'Enormous significance'
In October, Waverley Borough Council approved an additional £1.4m after more problems with the building were unearthed.
Concerns have been raised over the increasing costs of the project, with Jane Austin, leader of the Conservative Group, saying it was the third time in two years it had come back for more money.
Funding for the project has been provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, Farnham and District Museum Society, alongside local authorities.
"Willmer House is a building of enormous historical and cultural significance," said councillor Kika Mirylees.
"Coming out of the wealth generated from the hop trade, Willmer House is noted in particular for its brickwork, rated as one of the finest examples of Georgian brickwork in the country," said Simon Bradbury, vice chairman of The Farnham Society.
The event is free to attend, but places should be booked in advance, the council says.
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